Varicose veins are common among both men and women. They often cause embarrassment, along with many other uncomfortable symptoms. Fortunately, if you are suffering from varicose veins, several different varicose vein treatment options are available.
Diagnosing Varicose Veins
The most obvious sign of varicose veins is the appearance of enlarged, twisted veins below the skin’s surface. These veins are often blue or purplish in color, and they may become increasingly more visible over time. In addition to their unsightly appearance, varicose veins can also cause a host of unwanted symptoms, including:
- Itching
- Swelling of the feet and/or ankles
- Pain
- Tingling
- Heaviness
- Aching
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, you may be suffering from varicose veins, and you should seek treatment at a vein clinic as soon as possible.
At Your Appointment
When you visit a vein doctor, he or she will begin by examining the affected area and asking you questions about any symptoms you have experienced. Your doctor will then explain various types of varicose vein treatment and make a recommendation. Available treatments for varicose veins include:
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is the standard treatment for smaller varicose veins. It is a non-invasive procedure in which a special solution is injected into varicose veins in order to cause their collapse.
Microphlebectomy
Microphlebectomy is best for veins that are too large for sclerotherapy but not large enough for ablation. To perform this procedure, vascular surgeons make a small incision near the affected varicose veins and remove them from the body.
Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation
This procedure is appropriate for larger varicose veins. It involves the insertion of a small catheter into the vein, which is used to treat the vein with radiofrequency energy. This seals off the varicose vein and routes blood flow into healthier veins.
Endovenous Laser Therapy
Like radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser therapy involves treating the affected vein with laser energy to cause its collapse. After treatment, the vein fades from view and stops causing symptoms.
If you are suffering from the symptoms of varicose veins and are considering treatment, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.